Artists & Writers · 18th Century
Daniel Defoe’s Last Words
“He died alone, hiding from creditors.”— Daniel Defoe, April 24, 1731
Who Was Daniel Defoe?
Daniel Defoe was an English writer, pamphleteer, and spy who wrote Robinson Crusoe, one of the earliest English novels and a foundational work of Western literature.
The Final Moments
Defoe died alone in a London lodging house, hiding from creditors. He had been imprisoned multiple times for debt.
Are These Words Verified?
Accurately states no final words recorded. Historical evidence confirms Defoe died alone in hiding from creditors; no witnesses present to document last words.
Sources
- archive Contemporary burial records
- biography Paula Backscheider 'Daniel Defoe: His Life'
Legacy
Robinson Crusoe is considered one of the first English novels. It inspired the genre of survival fiction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Daniel Defoe’s last words?
“He died alone, hiding from creditors.”
How did Daniel Defoe die?
Daniel Defoe died on April 24, 1731 at the age of 70. Cause of death: Lethargy — likely stroke.
Were Daniel Defoe’s last words documented?
Accurately states no final words recorded. Historical evidence confirms Defoe died alone in hiding from creditors; no witnesses present to document last words.
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